Virginia Mason Franciscan Health Program
Location:
Seattle, WASpecialty:
RheumatologyACGME Code:
1505414001The Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (VMFH) Rheumatology Fellowship is an ACGME-accredited two-year program designed to provide comprehensive training for those pursuing a career in rheumatology. Graduates of the fellowship will be equipped to practice independently as rheumatology consultative specialists and will be eligible to apply for board certification by the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) in rheumatology.
The fellowship program is notable for its relatively recent establishment, having first been accredited by the ACGME in 2024. Despite being new, the rheumatology section at Virginia Mason Medical Center is among the largest and most well-regarded in Washington state. The center delivers extensive care to patients hailing from various states, including Washington, Alaska, Idaho, and Wyoming, handling hundreds of outpatient clinic visits each month, alongside a robust musculoskeletal ultrasound program.
Curriculum Overview
The curriculum is structured to ensure that fellows gain substantial experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Training encompasses a focus on outpatient clinical rheumatology, supported by a longitudinal continuity clinic experience. During their fellowship, trainees will rotate through various consultative services, allowing them to hone their skills in different contexts. Additionally, fellows will engage in elective rotations and dedicate time to research and academic projects, fostering a balance between clinical practice and scholarly pursuits.
Research Opportunities
VMFH hosts an active clinical and translational research program, working alongside the Benaroya Research Institute to participate in a variety of clinical trials. This involvement provides fellows with valuable exposure to innovative rheumatology practices and research methodologies, greatly enhancing their training experience.
Application Requirements
Applicants interested in joining the program must meet specific eligibility criteria, which include:
- Completion of an internal medicine residency in an ACGME-accredited program.
- Demonstration of self-motivation and a keen interest in continuous improvement.
- A strong inclination towards academic pursuits, teaching, or quality control initiatives.
- Possession of mature interpersonal and communication skills essential for patient interactions and teamwork.
- U.S. citizenship or possession of Permanent Residency status.
Competitiveness
The competitiveness of the VMFH Rheumatology Fellowship is reflective of its comprehensive training structure, coupled with the program's affiliation with a major research institute and a large medical center. These attributes typically attract a diverse pool of highly qualified applicants, making the selection process competitive.
Visa Sponsorship
The program offers visa support for applicants. Specifically, it can sponsor J-1 visas for international medical graduates who meet the required qualifications. This facilitates the acceptance of international candidates who wish to pursue their rheumatology fellowship at VMFH.
Website
Director
Erin M Bauer, MDRheumatology Fellowship Program Director Appointed Since April 2024Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
60hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$80,535First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
3Location
Seattle, WA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Seattle, WA
- Climate: Seattle has a mild, temperate climate with relatively cool and wet winters and warm, dry summers. It's known for its frequent rainfall and overcast skies.
- Population: Seattle has a diverse population with significant Asian, Hispanic, and African American communities.
- Safety: Seattle has a moderate crime rate compared to other U.S. cities of similar size. The city is generally considered safe, but like any urban area, caution should be exercised, especially in certain neighborhoods.
- Cost of Living: Seattle has a high cost of living, particularly in terms of housing. However, salaries in the area are generally higher to compensate.
- Education: Seattle is home to a number of prestigious educational institutions, including the University of Washington and Seattle University.
- Activities: Seattle offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, skiing, and water sports. The city also has a vibrant arts scene, numerous museums, and a wide range of dining options.
- Nearby Cities: Larger cities like Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, British Columbia, are relatively close to Seattle. Portland is about 2.5-3 hours away by car, while Vancouver is about 2.5-3.5 hours away depending on traffic.
- Pros: Seattle is a tech hub with a strong job market in various industries, beautiful natural surroundings, a lively food scene, and a strong sense of community.
- Cons: High cost of living, traffic congestion, and frequent rainfall may be viewed as drawbacks for some individuals.
Interview Questions
